RANK, OTTO (1884-1939)
Definition
Otto Rank (1884-1939) was an Austrian psychoanalyst and one of the most influential figures of the early psychoanalytic movement. He is best known for his pioneering contributions to psychoanalytic theory, including his concept of “will to power” and his emphasis on the role of the individual in psychological development.
History
Otto Rank was born in Vienna, Austria, on April 22, 1884. He studied literature and philosophy at the University of Vienna and worked as a librarian at the university before becoming a psychoanalyst. He was initially a close associate of Sigmund Freud, and the two collaborated on many psychoanalytic works. However, their relationship soured over time as Freud became increasingly critical of Rank’s theories. Rank eventually left the psychoanalytic movement and established his own school of thought, which became known as “Rankian” or “Rankian psychoanalytic theory.”
Characteristics
Rankian psychoanalytic theory focuses on the individual’s will to power and the role of the unconscious in psychoanalytic development. Rank argued that individuals have an innate desire to control and dominate their environment, which he called the “will to power.” He believed that this desire was the source of all psychological motivation. Rank also argued that unconscious forces play an important role in psychological development. He believed that the unconscious was the source of all psychological conflict and that individuals must learn to recognize and face their unconscious fears in order to achieve psychological balance.
References
Freud, S. (1930). Civilization and its discontents. London: Hogarth Press.
Kaufman, G. (2010). Otto Rank: His life and works. New York: Jason Aronson.
MacKinnon, D. (2007). The psychology of power: Otto Rank and the duality of human existence. Lanham, MD: Jason Aronson.
Rado, S. (1928). A critical examination of the concept of “will to power”. Psychoanalytic Quarterly, 3, 453-478.
Rank, O. (1924). The trauma of birth. New York: Harcourt, Brace.